Senior GSE Test Engineer - Advanced Programs

Job Description

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and autonomy beyond Earth orbit. Our Ranger spacecraft deliver high delta-V and sustained on-orbit maneuverability, enabling missions across cislunar and geostationary space that were previously out of reach. We are building the vehicles, infrastructure, and operational expertise that connect and protect assets across the Earth–Moon system.

Who We’re Looking For

Quantum Space is seeking a Senior Test Engineer focused on Ground Support Equipment (GSE) and vacuum test systems to enable in-house development and validation of electric propulsion (EP) technologies.

This role is built for an engineer who can design and build test infrastructure and operate it, someone equally comfortable developing GSE, working hands-on in a vacuum chamber, and running propulsion test campaigns. You will play a critical role in establishing and scaling our internal EP test capability.

Where You’ll Make an Impact

Design and develop GSE and test infrastructure for electric propulsion systems (thrusters, feed systems, support equipment)

Own vacuum chamber test setups: integration, configuration, and operation for EP testing

Define test system requirements including vacuum performance, thermal constraints, instrumentation, and safety systems

Lead build, integration, and commissioning of propulsion test setups

Develop and execute EP test campaigns: setup, operation, data collection, and troubleshooting

Operate and maintain vacuum systems: pumps (turbo, cryo, roughing), valves, gauges, and support equipment

Troubleshoot vacuum performance issues including leaks, contamination, and system instability

Design and implement instrumentation and data acquisition systems for propulsion testing

Develop test procedures, safety documentation, and operational workflows

Collaborate with propulsion, mechanical, electrical, and AI&T teams to ensure test readiness and data quality

What It Takes

BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related technical field

5–10+ years of experience with test systems, GSE, or propulsion testing

Strong experience designing and building test equipment (not just operating it)

Hands-on experience with vacuum systems and vacuum chamber operations

Experience supporting or running test campaigns (setup → execution → troubleshooting)

Strong understanding of mechanical systems, fluid systems, and controls

Proven ability to troubleshoot complex system-level issues in a test environment

Comfortable working hands-on in lab/test settings

Work location within the LA area

Nice-to-Have Experience

Direct experience with electric propulsion

Experience with thermal vacuum or propulsion vacuum testing

Familiarity with LabVIEW, PLCs, or custom data acquisition systems

Experience with high-voltage systems associated with EP testing

Experience with gas delivery systems

Familiarity with contamination control and vacuum materials compatibility

What You’ll Get

Ownership – Build and operate in-house propulsion test capability

Impact – Direct contribution to core spacecraft propulsion technology

Growth – Path to test architecture or propulsion test leadership

Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits

Additional Requirements

To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain required authorizations.